Printing on Foamex:Managing Vibrant Colour and Edge Finishing

Create bold, long-lasting Foamex signs with colour control, sharp edges, and expert hanging tips for professional indoor and outdoor displays.

Jul 11, 2025 - 17:18
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Printing on Foamex:Managing Vibrant Colour and Edge Finishing

When it comes to eye-catching signage and promotional displays, few materials match the versatility and quality of Foamex. Whether youre creating hanging business signs for a retail space or custom display panels for an event, Foamex board printing offers a professional and vibrant result. But to achieve the best possible finish, attention to detail is crucial, especially when it comes to managing colour and ensuring clean, sharp edges.

In this blog, well explore how Foamex works, how to make colours pop, and the techniques you can use to make your signs look their best from edge to edge.

What is Foamex?

Foamex, also known as foam PVC, is a lightweight, durable plastic material often used in the sign and display industry. Despite the name, its not a spongey foamits a rigid and smooth sheet that takes print extremely well.

Available in a range of thicknesses (typically 3mm, 5mm, and 10mm), Foamex is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Its solid structure makes it ideal for mounting, cutting, and custom shaping, which is why its so popular for everything from point-of-sale boards to large hanging business signs.

Why Foamex Makes Colours Stand Out

Foamex has a smooth, non-porous surface that allows ink to sit on top without bleeding or absorbing unevenly. This means you get clear, crisp prints with vibrant, high-contrast colours. It works well with digital UV techniques, makingFoamex board printingideal for retaining rich colour details.

Compared to cardboard or MDF, Foamex offers much better colour performance and a cleaner look. For businesses looking to leave a lasting impression, this makes it the go-to choice for signage and branding.

Colour Management Tips for Foamex Board Printing

Printing vibrant designs on Foamex requires more than just sending a file to the printer. Here are some important tips to make sure your colours are spot-on every time:

Tip

Why It Matters

Pro Tip

Use High-Resolution Artwork

Prevents blurry or pixelated prints

Aim for 300 DPI or higher

Calibrate Your Monitor

Ensures accurate colour from screen to print

Use a monitor calibration device

Opt for UV-Resistant Inks

Stops fading from sunlight exposure

Essential for outdoor hanging signs

Include Bleed Margins

Avoids unwanted white edges after cutting

Add at least 3mm of bleed to your design

Request a Test Print

Helps check colour accuracy before full production

Especially important for brand colours

By following these steps, youll ensure that your Foamex prints match your vision perfectly and retain their brightness over time.

Getting the Edges Right

Colour is only part of the visual appeal. The finish around the edges of your Foamex board can make or break the overall presentation.

For a clean and professional look, CNC (computer-controlled) cutting is often the best option. It provides sharp, accurate edges and allows for custom shapes. Manual cutting may work for simpler signs, but it can leave jagged or uneven edges.

Edge styles to consider:

  • Rounded corners:Safer and softer-looking, good for indoor signage or child-friendly environments.
  • Straight corners:Crisp and modern, suitable for professional or industrial signs.
  • Painted or sealed edges:Adds an extra layer of polish, useful for premium branding.

Laminating your board with a gloss or matte finish can also protect the edges and enhance the appearance, making the sign more durable against wear and tear.

Hanging Foamex Business Signs the Right Way

One of the biggest benefits of Foamex is its versatility when it comes to installation. Whether its a suspended shop sign or a wall-mounted display, there are several methods you can use depending on your environment.

Common Fixing Methods:

  • Drilled holes with screws or hooks:Secure and ideal for permanent fixtures.
  • Standoff mounts:Create a modern, floating look for office or gallery signage.
  • Velcro or adhesive strips:Great for temporary displays or rental spaces.
  • Suction cups:Perfect for glass surfaces or retail windows.

For outdoor signage, make sure to:

  • Use weather-resistant fixings and UV-stable inks.
  • Check for wind load on larger signs to avoid damage.
  • Use thicker boards (5mm or 10mm) to prevent bending.

With the right setup, yourhanging business signswill remain secure, legible, and attractive in any setting.

Applications of Foamex Signage

Foamex isnt just for one industry. Its used across sectors because it delivers a reliable, attractive, and budget-friendly solution for visual communication.

Here are some popular uses:

Retail:

  • Price boards
  • Promotional signage
  • Hanging aisle signs

Events:

  • Directional signage
  • Branded backdrops
  • Custom cut-out displays

Offices:

  • Reception branding
  • Informational panels
  • Safety notices

Outdoor:

  • Shop fascia boards
  • Real estate signs
  • Exhibition signs

Lets say a small boutique in London wants to attract more customers. They opt for a vibrant Foamex sign to hang above the entrance, featuring their brand colours and logo. The crisp print catches the eye, and thanks to the UV coating and CNC-cut edges, it stays looking fresh for months. Thats the power of well-executed Foamex board printing.

Is Foamex Eco-Friendly?

While Foamex is made from PVC, which isnt biodegradable, it is recyclable. Many recycling centres will accept it as long as its clean and free of non-recyclable layers like vinyl overlays.

To make your signage more sustainable:

  • Choose recyclable Foamex alternatives when possible.
  • Reuse signs for multiple campaigns.
  • Use eco-conscious inks and printing providers.

Being mindful of how you dispose of materials helps reduce your businesss environmental footprint.

Conclusion: Let Your Signs Speak with Colour and Precision

Foamex board printing is a smart choice for businesses that want durable, attractive, and cost-effective signage. From vibrant colour reproduction to clean edge finishing and flexible hanging options, Foamex delivers professional results every time.

Whether you're upgrading shop displays or creating event signage, managing your artwork quality and paying attention to finishing details will ensure your signs make a lasting impact.

If you're ready to create signage that stands out and delivers real value, the Board Printing Company is here to help you bring your vision to life.